Chicken meatball soup

Chicken meatball soup is a classic dish, loved by many families, that combines the savory taste of meat with the freshness of vegetables. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also offers an explosion of flavors that will delight everyone who enjoys it. Usually, I prefer to use cabbage juice to sour the soup, but today I decided to try it with lemon juice, and the result was absolutely delicious!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 750 g ground chicken
- 1 egg
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsley root
- 1/2 celery
- 1 white onion
- 100 g rice
- 2 egg yolks
- 200-250 g sour cream
- fresh parsley leaves
- lemon juice

Preparing the meatball soup:

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables
Start by boiling 4 liters of water in a large pot. When the water starts to boil, add the peeled parsley root, the whole celery, and the whole onion, just peeled. These vegetables will give the soup a rich aroma and contribute to a delicious taste.

Step 2: Prepare the meatballs
In a bowl, mix the ground chicken with salt, pepper, and the egg. It is important to mix the composition well to obtain firm meatballs. With oiled hands, form balls of appropriate size (about 2-3 cm in diameter) and place them on a plate.

Step 3: Cook the meatballs
Once the vegetables in the pot have started to boil, add the meatballs to the water. Let them boil over medium heat, removing the foam that forms on the surface. At this stage, add the grated carrots, which will bring a pleasant sweetness to the soup. Season with salt to taste and let it boil until the meat is well cooked.

Step 4: Boil the rice
Separately, boil the rice in salted water. When the rice is almost cooked, drain it and add it to the pot with the soup. This will make the soup more consistent and nutritious. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 5: Souring and finishing
When the soup is about to be ready, adjust the taste with lemon juice. Add a few fresh parsley leaves for extra freshness. In a separate bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sour cream, then temper the mixture with two ladles of soup. This step is essential to prevent the sour cream from curdling when added to the soup.

Step 6: Final mixing
Pour the sour cream and egg yolk mixture into the pot with the soup, stirring constantly to integrate the ingredients. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup sit for a few minutes for the flavors to blend.

Step 7: Serving
The meatball soup is served hot, with a slice of lemon on the edge of the plate for a pleasant appearance and refreshing taste. You can also add a few fresh parsley leaves for decoration. It is an excellent choice for a lunch or dinner and pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread.

Practical tips:
- Use fresh, quality chicken meat to get juicy meatballs.
- Make sure the vegetables are cut evenly for even cooking.
- You can vary the recipe by adding other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for a more complex flavor.
- If you prefer a more sour soup, you can adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor gets even better the next day.

Nutritional information:
The meatball soup is a healthy choice, rich in protein and vitamins due to the fresh vegetables. A serving of soup (about 250 ml) contains between 200-300 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream used. It is also a good source of fiber, thanks to the vegetables and rice.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pork instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use pork, but it is recommended to use lean meat to keep the soup light.
2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a little chopped hot pepper or spices like paprika to give it a spicy note.
3. Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is a mild recipe, but make sure not to add too much pepper or spicy seasonings.

Ideal combinations:
Meatball soup goes well with a fresh cabbage salad or assorted pickles. Also, a glass of yogurt or fresh fruit juice will perfectly complete the meal.

This chicken meatball soup recipe is not only tasty but also comforting – ideal for cooler days. Try it and enjoy its unique flavors! Enjoy your meal!